Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP 6-1/2″ CORDLESS TRACK SAW Review

RYOBI 18V ONE+ HP 6-1/2" TRACK SAW PTS01K
[specs_box align="right"]The new Ryobi 18V track saw arrived in our shop a month ago and we’ve been using it prior to this review. We immediately recognize that this saw will appeal to DIY'ers because it takes up less space, is easier to use, and is safer than a table saw. Not to mention folks living in condos/apartments who might be interested in DIY projects but have held off due to the need for a table saw. Now they can achieve table saw accuracy cuts without having to store a table saw
The Ryobi 18v track saw features a brushless motor, a 6-1/2” blade and when equipped with a 4.o Ah battery, it has a runtime of 65 crosscuts of cutting per charge by crosscutting ½” OSB plywood. The Ryobi track saw will provide users on the Ryobi battery platform the ability to make precise, accurate, and efficient cuts without the need for a table saw.
Specifications
Blade size: 6-1/2 in.
Arbor: 5/8 in.
Track: 2 x 27.5 in (included)
Cut capacity w/track (90°): 1-15/16 in.
Cut capacity w/track (45°): 1-7/16 in.
90° cut capacity (no track): 2-1/8 in.
45° cut capacity (no track): 1-9/16 in.
Bevel capacity: -1° to 48°
Track adjust and anti-tip adjustments
Adjustable depth control knob
Speed: 4,300 RPM
Dust Port: 1-1/4 and 1-7/8 in.
Warranty: 3-year limited
First Impression | Track Saw and Track
The first thing I noticed was the packaging. It was short, and I was expecting a long track. After opening the package, I realized that there were two 27.5” tracks, and when combined made a 55-inch track. I’m assuming Ryobi did this for packaging, transport, and store display reasons. My thoughts are that most folk will assemble the track and leave assembled at 55-inches.
The fit and finish on this saw screams DIY, there is a ton of plastic used in the construction of this saw, and even the base plate is plastic. Upon further inspection, the tool seems durable, but the saws adjustment knobs are not as robust as I’d prefer to see. The plunge mechanism is smooth and easy to use, and the track is solid and very well made.
The saw does not come with a variable speed motor and puts out 4300 RPMs, which is a bit lower than most of the track saws on the market.
Features
The Ryobi has comparable features to other higher-end saws, like track tension/adjusters and an anti-tip mechanism. The depth lock knob is clear and straightforward but does not slide easily.
The blade and riving knife can be removed easily, with an onboard Allen wrench. A second, onboard Allen wrench handles the track connection screws.
Ryobi Tracks
The Ryobi track has robust, well-made track sections, that feature heavy-gauge aluminum construction and are very stiff with little give. The track saw kit comes with 2 separate 27.5 inch tracks to equal a 55-inch track. Two connectors approximately 12″ long connect the two tracks. The connecting rods and corresponding slots have enough play that the track can be aligned perfectly by the user, instead of relying on it being true from the factory.
I found it best to use a level to connect the two tracks. Once everything was tightened up, the saw slid over the seam with no issue. The Ryobi 18v track saw, and the track are NOT compatible with other saws or tracks.
IMPORTANT NOTE: prior to using the saw for cutting you first must make a sacrificial cut to remove the excess rubber off track. This makes it so the track lines up with the saw blade.
Using the Saw
In use, the saw had plenty of power for the ¾” Birch plywood I was cutting. The Ryobi 18v track saw has a depth of cut capacity on the track of 1-15/16” when set at 90° and 1-7/16 in. when set at a 45° bevel. The bevel capacity can be adjusted from -1° to 48°.
The depth of cut, anti-tip, track adjustment, and -1 bevel degree lever is plastic and as a result, is not smooth to operate. This is certainly one area Ryobi could improve on.
I connected the saws dust port to my shop vacuum and it collected dust well but could benefit from a swivel to avoid the hose getting caught on the track. The port fits hose diameters from 1-1/4 and 1-7/8 in.
Price
If you’re already using Ryobi tools and have batteries, the saw + track kit is a screaming bargain at $329. There’s no way you can get a track saw, and track at that price point.
1. Bare tool: $329
2. KIT: $399
3. 2-track kit $79.00
Final Thoughts
The Ryobi 18v track saw is a good entry point track saw with an outstanding track. Its positioned perfectly for DIY folks on the Ryobi battery platform or for someone wanting to make more accurate cuts, without a table saw.
This saw is not in the same class as many of the pro-grade saws on the market, but its price sure got our attention, and it’s going to give users the accuracy of a table saw in a handheld form.

[@ElectricIguana]

Always appreciate the reviews on Ryobi. So many poopoo the brand because it's cheap, but for many of us, it's all we can afford.

[@riba2233]

We need a new track saw showdown, with this Ryobi, 40v makita and upcoming Milwaukee, that would be sick!

[@takeniteasyfriend]

Call it the less than $400 track saw showdown. They always do the best with their reviews ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@Benmeglei1]

Bless your heart for mentioning folks who live in condos who want to wood work. Yes we exist.

[@chriswilhelm5256]

I got mine about a month ago and was blown away at how easy it was to get to set up and get clean cuts that require little to no finishing. I’m extremely happy with it and it will save me from breaking out the table saw for smaller jobs.

[@LivingInTransit1]

I've owned a Festool and currently have a Makita. Good to know there are cheaper options out there and that you guys took the time to review a tool that's not normally in your sights!

[@flguy7331]

Excellent review as always. You can get a corded track saw for less. Wen makes a 6.5" one for $97.44 and a 7.25 one for $152.11 and 2 50" tracks for $65.69. I got PowerTec tracks which are 55" for $128.99.

[@betods1013]

@fartpoobox ohyeah Thats why he wrote 'corded".

[@BubbasDad]

Looked at the Ryobi 18V. I am a DIY hobbyist and couldn't justify the battery operated saw as I am pretty much locked into Dewalt tools. Would have needed to go to another battery platform. I ended up with a Wen track saw and Powertec Track (2@55"). Cost under $230. Works great for me and I have 110 inches of track.

[@ProfessorCypdog]

I just bought this kit on clearance for $200! First track saw, so I can deal with the shortcomings. Especially for 200 bucks!

[@evansexton4498]

Good honest review of what to expect and not expect from this saw. Definitely a steal at $329.

[@bladee_enjoyer540]

The makita 18x2 saw is only $100 more if you include the batteries, plus you're not locked into Ryobi's weird proprietary guide rails. Makita, Triton and Festool all use virtually identical guide rails so there are a ton of accessories and jigs for those.

[@jay62nz]

@@bladee_enjoyer540 Holy cow - here in New Zealand, just the Makita 18x2 skins are NZ$1000

[@TomUlcak]

I like Ryobi. I did experience a fail, though, with the 18V oscillating tool. The motor fried. So, I opted for a 20V Dewalt oscillating tool. I think Ryobi really revolutionized the cordless market.

[@NBGTFO]

I have several Ryobi tools and while most do what they're supposed, the worst tools Ryobi sells is the 9" band saw and the drill driver. The band saw is just bad quality and the drill driver wore out way before it's time... less than 2 years of light to moderate use. Replaced both with better brands.

[@edblough4134]

How about a shootout between the diy saws, Ryobi, Triton, Kreg, Wen, using a high dollar saw like Festool as a standard. Look at dust collection, build, cut quality, ease of use, short comings compared to standard, advantages over standard, cost for setup to cut 8 ft lumber. Finally preferences between DIY saws. It would make a great video.!

[@RidgidRon]

Rob-thanks for the excellent review and agree with your conclusions. I was watching the Tool Box Instagram especially the Milwaukee track saw. I see the rotatable dust port on the Milwaukee track saw and get that improvement on the Ryobi track saw.

[@williamburns7075]

Thanks for the review, I just found a great deal on the Ryobi track saw with track and so it will be Merry Christmas for my son and son in law.

[@tomhale5956]

I always enjoy your tool reviews and comparisons. I have bought a lot of my tools based on your reviews. Thanks!

[@codysmith1915]

I have been debating getting one of these, or saving for even longer to get the a more expensive one. I'm glad you guys reviewed it, your reviews are some of the ones that I actually trust online

[@Usonian7]

Everything to except from Ryobi in the last couple years, can't wait to buy one.

[@morrigansraven61]

The track saw also helps when breaking down full sheets of plywood on your own, you can use saw horses or the floor with some foam insulation as a sacrificial surface and you won't struggle with the weight and length of full sheets of plywood.

[@JsGarage]

I think even if you have a smaller table saw it's nice to use something like this to cut down to better sizes for those smaller table saw setups. Thanks for the review. Great sale on this product today.

[@csimet]

It may be perfect for my occasional use to break down sheet goods to get into my shop for later table saw cuts. I currently use a cumbersome aluminum straightedge and my Dewalt 20V 6.5" circular saw. This looks easy to setup and use, perfect for what I'd need. It is now on my future buy list.

[@henri6595]

Looks like a great saw at a great price, ment for people who do a couple house improvements a year!

[@Tool_Addicted_Carpenter]

I used some scrap PVC to make a 98" track and a 54" track to hold me over until I wanted to buy the Festool. After making the tracks, I've found that they're perfect for my sporadic use. Saved me a ton of money and they cut as straight as any track out there. The only saw that still catches my eye is the Makita 9 1/4 track compatible. I won't buy it out of spite though because it has a 3 3/8" cut capacity and it's so close to 3 1/2" that it just bugs me that they wouldn't figure out how to make that happen. I know no one is tracking 4x materials but still lol come on.

[@henrysara7716]

Thank you, very useful and honest review.

[@Whiskey-XXX]

Thanks for covering this one.

[@joshrobinson5151]

Great review. Exactly what I needed. Thanks.

[@JeffDM]

I didn't know HD sold the tracks now. Before they weren't available and that was a deal-killer. I've seen suggestions to get them direct from Ryobi. Calling Ryobi is a no-go because I tried calling Ryobi for a different part and the hold time was almost an hour, and you weren't assured they were available to buy going into the call. That experience really reduced the value of their warranty to me. If I have to be on hold an hour maybe I should look at replacing the item with a different brand.

[@derekb7260]

The lack of compatible track extensions kills this saw right now. The biggest draw is ripping full sheets and doing it in 2 passes makes for a lot more error. Hopefully Milwaukee track saws are compatible with Festool tracks not making that mistake again.

[@michaelhamilton8580]

Would you recommend this to cut stair treads / risers?

[@pf5658]

I’d consider this as a cheaper option for taking to a job site instead of my more expensive ones. Wouldn’t be such an expensive lost if it gets stolen.

[@jewittm]

As a strictly diy guy I’ve got a hitachi table saw eating up space that makes 3-4 cuts per year, this might be the end of it honestly.

[@ConcordCarpenter]

Your the guy this saw was made for!

[@andre1987eph]

I like your honesty. For me this saw doesn’t make sense as I already have Dewalt and Makita Batteries. Spend a little more for a Dewalt or Makita or even Maffell. One thing you didn’t mention was whether or not this has anti kick back protection via the track. Makita tracks saws do not, but their circular saws made track compatible do, ironically.

[@riba2233]

Makitas have kick back protection

[@ConcordCarpenter]

It does not, just the riving knife

[@Jason-uz8hj]

I have the makita 2x18v track saw. I really like it. Use it for a good mix of finish work and even cutting decking on most of my deck projects. I opted for festool tracks after reading lots of reviews that didnt like the makita tracks.

[@necrojoe]

Right now, many HD stores are clearancing the kit with the track, 4ah battery and charger for $200. I bought it...but I'm torn. It'd mostly be for breaking down full sheets, but that would mean a 4-piece track to get to 110"...the $200 price is GREAT...but...man...I'm torn.

[@roysnider3456]

I see the 2 piece track as a positive because you can just use one section if your making a lot of cross cuts and you don’t have to deal with 55 inches of track I.

[@rjd8434]

You can get a Wen(corded)track saw with 2 50” tracks for considerably less than that! About $200 I have one and it works great!

[@larryh7760]

I have a great Metabo jobsite table saw but this looks like it would be easier to use for small jobs. Maybe it will go on sale soon.

[@fradd4045]

the perfect saw to have solely for fiber cement sheet

[@misterz2719]

Great idea and get a reconditioned one.

[@rkooscar6866]

I’m debating this with the makita corded plunge track saw

[@Trickmanii]

It was a bad move not to make the Track compatible with Makita, Festool and now Milwaukee. If it was this would allow people to upgrade to better saws down the line. Also people might even picked up Tracks for the other brands.

[@sloanNYC]

Isn't that the point? People at those price points wouldn't be interested in this anyway? So might as well have lock in and make some $ off the track accessories?

[@Trickmanii]

@@sloanNYC Yeah, That makes some sense but it is kind of a Catch 22. Lets say I am a homeowner and I really like the Festool track saw. But it is not in my budget at the moment and I have some Ryobi. I could get by with this unit. Milwaukee went compatibility and the price point is not that much different. Currently, I have a Makita Tracksaw so I am good....Milwaukee new track saw looks nice. Currently, I can buy Makita, Milwaukee or Festool tracks and I can run my Makita on it or if it dies or I feel like a upgrade I can buy Festool or Milwaukee without have to buy new tracks. Ryobi will always be just homeowner grade I guess but I would have thought it would have been smart.

[@takeniteasyfriend]

👍Wow! Wish they had before I bought my Festool a few years ago. A powder keg saw for DIY’rs and family members interested in getting into woodworking.

[@64maxpower]

Your Festool Saw is 100x better than this saw

[@henrilebovic5229]

Cool review. You remind me of Jay from modern family lol

[@aaronmcintyre3998]

Thank you

[@mario3804]

I wonder if you use a different blade maybe it cuts better.

[@squirtdaddy3428]

I can 100% see a specific market for this saw, but I'm 100% not in that market.

[@64maxpower]

I'd want a 8 foot track

[@briandolhun1968]

thank you ..great review

[@dwarden3]

329....no. 229, hell yes!

[@sloanNYC]

It just strikes me that people that need a track saw need something higher quality and more durable. It will be interesting to see how many they sell.

[@ConcordCarpenter]

This tool will sell

[@sloanNYC]

@@ConcordCarpenter Do you think because it is good enough for DIYers who don't have room for a table saw like you said, or because even pros will buy it because of the price point?

[@kevinohara8671]

great very informative but if I had a workshop I'd defo feed my house from above I did it on one site job but had good setup for it but most of the time it takes too long but once set up it works well

[@showersdpn]

I don't do woodworking, but I still want one! Lol!

[@ConcordCarpenter]

Go get it

[@andreinvictoria]

I'd like to see this track saw versus the new Milwaukee versus the Mafell. Kind of a comparison of what you get dollar for dollar.

[@sendmedics]

Appreciate the review. I’m a DIYer and also do some client renovation work. I have a table saw but was considering this for jobs outside the home. I have a vast about of HP Ryobi tools. Would this be a better option then say, the Kreg?

[@ConcordCarpenter]

both good

[@michaelshelnutt3534]

Did you check the accuracy of the angle markings?

[@davesmith7328]

I do home remodeling and I’m a dewalt guy. But i do have a couple of ryobi tools. I’m tempted to go cheaper and buy this but I don’t want to get bit in the long run.

[@64maxpower]

You won't get bit at this price

[@javiermendoza4265]

where did you got the vac adapter from ryobi to festool ?

[@Westy04]

I have this saw and I have not been impressed so far. The saw is way under powered. I've tried several times to make a cut of 1.5in butcher blocks and it can't do it. I have to score it at half depth and come back and make a second cut. I also found the blade starts to deflect at thickness over 3/4 of an inch and bogs the saw down.

[@ConcordCarpenter]

At 4300 rpm’s you will see that, this is more a sheet stock saw. It will struggle with thick hardwood, your approach of two passes is smart and will stress the motor less

[@Zavrl_Lavigne]

How well does this track saw do with hardwood something that's at 6/4 thick?

[@jayrich1985]

What would you recommend, im around 3 years into woodworking, wanting to get into larger tables and help break down sheet goods. I'm fully committed to the ryobi platform with around 12 ryobi tools, 6+ batteries etc, I want to buy this saw so bad, but I keep finding myself leaning to the makita, mainly for the track design and track attachments

[@markdoumert4840]

Personally I would recommend getting the makita or a festool. Especially since you are in a shop and not transporting from jobsite to jobsite, its not really that big of a deal to run 2 separate battery platforms. That opens you up into a whole new line of potential tools that you may like. I run a few different platforms and aside from carrying a couple extra chargers its not really an inconvenience, with the upside of being able to choose the best tools from each manufacturer. For example makita makes super nice miter saws but milwaukee has the best cordless nailers.

[@jayrich1985]

@@markdoumert4840 I think I've decided on the makita, home depot is running a great deal at the moment. 18v brushless impact and drill with 2 4ah batteries and charger for 298cdn, and you get a free tool up to 200 value. I needed to replace my corded jigsaw. So for $300 at least I can replace my dewalt drills and my old jigsaw and have a headstart on the makita track

[@anthonymontalto4116]

They dont sell this in Australia 😔

[@RayW808]

Does this use the same Festool/Makita and now Milwaukee Track style?

[@ConcordCarpenter]

Track is proprietary and not compatible

[@RayW808]

@@ConcordCarpenter Swing and a miss, thank you sir.

[@davidclink2032]

dies. Own 18+ tools and love them. Used in a business and they are rugged. I built a trak saw from a kit to fit an outstanding saw. It works great but had this been available I'd have bought it. After all cordless tools are like slr cameras, one you have the body you're stuck with that brand lenses. Batteries are everything and having them fit an array of tools is key.

[@tedmcdonald3377]

😎🛠️😎🛠️😎

[@markfernandes2396]

i want to buy it but the track is the deal breaker

[@RodrigoMadriz]

No thanks. One of my first projects was using a Ryobi circular saw and I realized all my cuts, with no exception had a variance in the angles of the cuts despite being "set" at 90°. It took me some time to realize that given that the base is stamped steel it had a lot of flex making it impossible to make accurate cuts repeatedly. After that disappointing experience I steer clear of saws without a robust construction (meaning no more Ryobi for me)

[@hutchdw77]

TTI makes Milwaukee, and Ryobi tools.

[@heeltoe6845]

Doesn’t mean much. Engineered completely separately.

[@ConcordCarpenter]

Yes they do,the two saws are completely different

[@gurban333]

Ryobi. AKA TTI doesnt give a Fuck. they just launched the Milwauke track saw.

[@MattLitkeRacing]

I don’t think I’ll be selling my TSC 55 to get this

[@GeeDeeBird]

Not for nothin', but the $200 Wen looks better.

[@Pro1er]

I am NOT a Ryobi hater but man this thing scrapes the bottom of the barrel. I think $199 would be a fair price.